Mumbai: Acclaimed lyricist and storyteller Neelesh Misra has opened up about singer Arijit Singh’s decision to continue living in his hometown of Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, instead of settling permanently in Mumbai despite becoming one of India’s biggest music stars. Describing Arijit as a “fakir aadmi” (a simple, detached person), Misra said the singer’s choice reflects self-respect and a conscious preference for a slower, more meaningful way of life.
The comments come months after Arijit Singh announced that he would no longer accept new playback singing assignments, choosing instead to focus on his personal journey and independent creative pursuits.
Neelesh Misra praises Arijit’s lifestyle
Speaking on a podcast hosted by journalist Shubhankar Mishra, Neelesh Misra discussed the growing trend of people returning to their roots instead of pursuing the fast-paced lifestyle associated with metropolitan cities.
Drawing a comparison with his own decision to work from a village near Lucknow, Misra cited Arijit Singh as an example of someone who deliberately chose a quieter life over Mumbai’s glamour. He said Arijit is “a fakir aadmi” whose decision stems from self-respect rather than pride or a desire to make a statement.
Arijit continues to live in Jiaganj
Although Arijit Singh remains one of Bollywood’s most sought-after singers, he has continued to base himself in Jiaganj in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district.
From there, he records music, spends time with his family and regularly hosts visitors from the film industry. International celebrities, including Ed Sheeran, and Bollywood actor Aamir Khan have previously visited the singer at his hometown residence.
‘Slow living’ over city life
Misra said he believes more people are embracing “slow living” by moving away from crowded cities and reconnecting with their roots.
He explained that meaningful work connected to rural India cannot always be managed effectively from Mumbai. According to him, Arijit’s lifestyle reflects a broader movement where individuals prioritise peace, authenticity and community over fame and urban convenience.
Retirement from playback singing
The discussion also followed Arijit Singh’s surprise announcement earlier this year that he would stop taking new playback singing assignments.
In a social media note shared in January, the singer thanked listeners for their support and described his playback career as “a wonderful journey”. While he stepped away from accepting new film songs, he has indicated that he intends to continue making original music independently.
Industry reacted with emotion
Arijit’s announcement prompted emotional reactions from across the music industry.
Veteran singer Kumar Sanu, playback singer Shreya Ghoshal, rapper Badshah, composer Amaal Mallik and singer Armaan Malik were among those who praised his contribution to Indian music and expressed support for his decision. Many described him as a once-in-a-generation talent whose influence extends beyond playback singing.
One of Bollywood’s defining voices
Over the past decade, Arijit Singh has become synonymous with romantic and emotional Bollywood music.
His repertoire includes chartbusters such as Tum Hi Ho, Raabta, Laal Ishq, Kabhi Jo Baadal Barse, Aaj Phir and many others, making him one of the defining voices of contemporary Hindi cinema.
Conclusion
Neelesh Misra’s remarks have once again highlighted Arijit Singh’s unconventional lifestyle, which stands in contrast to the glamour often associated with Bollywood. By continuing to live in Jiaganj and embracing slow living, Arijit has demonstrated that immense success need not come at the cost of personal values and connection to one’s roots. As the singer enters a new phase beyond playback music, his choices continue to resonate with fans across the country.